THE widespread use of anabolic steroids among men wanting to achieve a muscular body has prompted calls for children to be educated about the substances.

Research by the University of Glamorgan revealed that boys of 15 at some hard-core gyms in the South Wales Valleys are taking steroids, despite their bodies not reaching full maturity.

The prevalence of steroid use in some Valleys communities has led police officers to label the phenomenon a "problem".

Former Detective Inspector Paul Cannon, who was based in Ton Pentre, said, "If you look at some of the young doormen outside the pubs and clubs you don't have to be an expert to tell they've been taking steroids.

"Their bodies have developed massively over a short space of time which wouldn't have happened without assistance.

"It's definitely a macho image they are trying to achieve.Private gyms are a growth industry and people I have spoken to have said that steroids are readily available."

It is also feared steroid use could also lead to other drug use, as evidence suggests these young men may also take ecstasy and cocaine.

And Professor Bruce Davies, of the University of Glamorgan, added, "We need education in schools to prevent those boys of 12 or 13 years old becoming the boys of 15 taking steroids in gyms.

"They are starting to go through puberty and hoping to develop a macho image and that's when they become vulnerable.

"We have to prevent these children from thinking that being big is the only thing to life."